Ah, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs! Just saying it makes my heart skip a beat! Every year around Valentine’s Day, I look for the perfect dish to impress my loved one, and this one tops the list. Not only do short ribs become meltingly tender when braised in rich red wine, but they also fill your home with an aroma that’s downright intoxicating. I remember the first time I prepared this meal—it was an evening filled with laughter, candles, and just a hint of anxiety in the kitchen. But when I pulled those gorgeous, deep-burgundy ribs from the oven, all worries faded. They were an absolute hit!
What makes this dish so special isn’t just the flavors—it’s the warmth and love that fill the room as you cook. Plus, the best part? It looks impressive, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. So, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just treating yourself to a decadent meal, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this culinary delight!
What’s in Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?
Short Ribs: The star of the show! I recommend using bone-in beef short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled pieces; they’ll result in juicy, fork-tender meat after a long, slow cook.
Red Wine: Use a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for depth and richness. Don’t feel pressured to splurge on the most expensive bottle; just choose something you enjoy drinking!
Beef Broth: A rich beef broth adds another layer of flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought; I’m a fan of low-sodium options to control the salt levels.
Onions: Sweet onions are great for balancing the flavors. I usually chop them up and let their natural sweetness cook down and enrich the sauce.
Carrots: They bring a wonderful sweetness and beautiful color to the dish. Plus, they’re just plain good for you!
Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves create an aromatic fragrance that really elevates the dish. If you can’t get fresh thyme, dried will work in a pinch.
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the flavor bomb! I use it in generous amounts because, let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better.
Olive Oil: For searing the meat and sautéing the veggies! Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil, as it truly enhances the flavors.
Is Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Good for You?
Now, you might be wondering if indulging in this dish is a smart choice. While it’s certainly rich and decadent, it does have some nutritional merits.
Short Ribs: They contain protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron, which are great for your body. However, they can be high in saturated fat, so moderation is key.
Red Wine: When consumed in moderation, red wine has been associated with heart health benefits and contains antioxidants. Just remember, we’re cooking with it, not downing the whole bottle—though I won’t judge if you want a glass while you cook!
Carrots and Onions: These veggies are filled with vitamins and fiber, so they help balance things out a bit.
Eating this dish every night might not be the best idea, but for a special occasion—absolutely! Just pair it with a lovely salad or some steamed veggies to keep it somewhat healthy.
Ingredients List
– 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs (serves 4)
– 1 bottle (750ml) of bold red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 medium carrots, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Once hot, add the ribs and sear them on all sides until they’re nicely browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). You might need to do this in batches. Remove the ribs and set them aside on a plate.
4. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and carrots, stirring to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
5. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot again to make sure everything is combined and flavorful. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until it reduces slightly.
7. Add the beef broth and bay leaves. Once simmering, return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
9. Once done, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to cool down slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions to Impress
As you prepare to enjoy this mouth-watering dish, think about how you want to serve it! It’s perfect over a creamy polenta, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up that luxurious sauce. Consider garnishing with a sprinkling of fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness. And let’s not forget—pair it with a glass of the same red wine you used; it’ll bring everything together beautifully!
Cooking this dish will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but will also provide a heartwarming experience for you and your loved one. I encourage you to give it a go, embrace the process, and enjoy it just as much as I have! Share your experience—I’d love to hear how your dinner turned out and the smiles it brought to your table. Happy cooking!